HPBA Pacific held IGNITE 2026: Hearth Training and Product Showcase from August 31-September 2, 2026. Hosted by West End Brick N’ Fire at the retailer’s new home in Chino, California, the event brought together hearth professionals from across the region to participate in hands-on training and networking while enjoying West Coast fireplace camaraderie.
Education Across the Industry
Sessions across the three days covered a variety of topics, including sales, marketing, safety, and technical topics. All classes offered CEUs for continuing education through the National Fireplace Institute (NFI).
The event opened with a keynote address and government affairs update from Eric Adair, HPBA Senior Manager, Codes and Standards, and continued with several sessions, including the Dexen Industries Gas Training Class and a discussion on “AI and Your Business.”
At the end of day one, attendees enjoyed the West Coast Beer Bash, a relaxed evening of food, drinks, and fun.
Hands-On Gas Training
A highlight of the event was the two days of hands-on tech training. Mark Humphrey led the training and brings more than 30 years of hearth, chimney, gas, and HVAC experience.
The training’s Core Technician Skills curriculum covered a variety of topics, including fuel gas basics, pressure testing, gas piping diagnostics, and more. It also included hands-on labs, where technicians got the opportunity to practice pressure measurement and adjustment, BTU clocking and verification, and millivolt voltage testing, among other skills.
This ensured attendees got direct experience with the latest tools and techniques under Humphrey’s expert guidance.
Building Relationships on the West Coast
Pat Lopez, President of Burnie Fireplace Services, captured the spirit of the event. “Events like this are essential for our industry,” Lopez said. “They not only foster relationships but also ensure our teams are equipped with the practical knowledge to deliver outstanding service.”
Between the training sessions, roundtables, lunches, and the Beer Bash, attendees found plenty of opportunities to connect with peers across the region. Through events like IGNITE 2026, HPBA Pacific helps foster professional development and community building within the hearth, patio, and barbecue industry.